A new gel to treat thick, raised scars
A Relaxin-loaded Hydrogel for the Treatment of Hypertrophic Scars
This project is developing a new gel containing a natural hormone to help prevent and treat thick, raised scars after skin injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University (Charles River Campus) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121735 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Thick, raised scars, known as hypertrophic scars, affect millions of people each year, especially after surgeries or severe burns. Current treatments are often painful, have limited success, or are invasive. This project aims to create a better solution by targeting the root cause of scar development. Researchers are using a natural hormone called relaxin-2, delivered through a special gel that releases the hormone slowly and locally. This innovative approach seeks to reduce the excessive buildup of scar tissue and improve healing.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients who have or are at risk of developing thick, raised scars after surgery, burns, or other skin injuries might be ideal candidates for this type of treatment.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of scars, such as keloids or atrophic scars, may not receive benefit from this specific treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this new gel could offer a less painful and more effective way to prevent and treat thick, raised scars, improving appearance and comfort for many patients.
How similar studies have performed: This approach uses a novel combination of a natural hormone and a specialized gel for scar treatment, building on existing knowledge of scar biology.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University (Charles River Campus) — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grinstaff, Mark W. — Boston University (Charles River Campus)
- Study coordinator: Grinstaff, Mark W.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.